What Happened
British comedian Russell Brand pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to new counts of rape and sexual assault during an appearance at Southwark Crown Court. The new allegations involve incidents that reportedly took place in 2009, as stated by the Crown Prosecution Service.
Why It Matters
Brand, 50, is already facing similar charges involving four women, which include two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault. These earlier allegations date back to incidents occurring between 1999 and 2005 in locations such as Bournemouth and London. Brand has consistently denied all charges, with a trial scheduled for June that is expected to last four to five weeks.
What’s Next
A hearing is set for next month to determine whether the new allegations will be combined with the existing case. Brand’s lawyer has indicated that more time is needed to address the latest charges. Upon arriving at court, Brand was seen wearing a white cowboy hat and sunglasses, and he expressed to reporters that he felt “blessed.”
